1745 and 46, of 55, 56, 57, 58 of 61 and the following.
The German had been on a decline during the
latter years of my late revered Father's ministrations – and
from the general prevalence of the English language in the
United States – it appears quite impracticable to have it
continued much longer (at least in this southern section)
as the medium of popular instruction and religious address.
I feel happy however in observing that an undiminished
adherence to the doctrines of the great father of the
Reformation still continues to be evidenced – though we
may regret the almost indispensable necessity of substitut[ing]
//another// language – yet we feel constrained to bear in [...]
remembrance the names as well as the sentiments [of]
our venerated German ancestors. The first Lutheran S[ynod]
was held in my Church in November of the preceding
year – which afforded general satisfaction.
from the general prevalence of the English language in the
United States – it appears quite impracticable to have it
continued much longer (at least in this southern section)
as the medium of popular instruction and religious address.
I feel happy however in observing that an undiminished
adherence to the doctrines of the great father of the
Reformation still continues to be evidenced – though we
may regret the almost indispensable necessity of substitut[ing]
//another// language – yet we feel constrained to bear in [...]
remembrance the names as well as the sentiments [of]
our venerated German ancestors. The first Lutheran S[ynod]
was held in my Church in November of the preceding
year – which afforded general satisfaction.
I have written you in English, presuming
that it //will// not be unintelligible. With my best wishes
for the prosperity of your excellent institution and your
individual happiness,
for the prosperity of your excellent institution and your
individual happiness,
I beg leave to subscribe myselfvery respectfully yours
C. F. Bergman